One of the better prospects in Arizona's 2018 class is Hamilton High School's talented 6-foot-4, 185-pound junior guard Rashad Smith. Smith had a breakout season for himself this past high school season, and is also coming off a good showing this spring. As a result, Smith is now receiving good division-I interest for himself.
This spring while traveling with the Las Vegas Prospects (NV), a Nike-sponsored EYBL team, Smith saw the majority of his time at the point guard position on the competitive circuit, and raised many eyebrows with his performance.
I caught up with Smith recently and he advised me that he is currently hearing from Pacific, Saint Mary's, Loyola Marymount and UW-Milwaukee currently, as a result of his play this spring.
Smith has gained 15 pounds of his once thin frame since the end to the high school season, which has benefited him nicely as a player and as a college prospect. Smith's skill level has also improved through hours of training and skill development this spring. Smith has developed nicely into a bigger guard prospect with a nice skill level and excellent size for the combo-guard position.
Smith is a bigger guard prospect that plays the game at a high level. Playing for head coach Doug Harris at Hamilton High School, Smith has learned how to play the game at a high level. As a result, he has really developed as a player and as a college prospect.
This high school season, Smith posted good numbers - averaging 15.2 points, 2.5 assists and 3.7 rebounds per/game, while shooting 48% from the field.
I will continue to follow the college recruitment of Smith closely, heading into the summer, and bring you any updates as they continue to develop.
Arizona Hoop Review Scouting Report: Smith is a bigger guard prospect that is able to play both guard positions on the floor, but is at his best as a scorer. He is a very good shooter with excellent range on his shot, and a nice ability to make plays off the dribble for himself and others. He has an excellent handle of the basketball and is a very good slasher and finisher in the open court. He pushes the ball up the floor to the open man, and also enjoys having the basketball in his hands. He has good overall size and a quick release on his shot. A good athlete. An active rebounder but needs to continue to focus on this area of his game, which should progress nicely over time. A good on-the-ball defender that also plays passing lanes. Has upside as a player. A good overall guard prospect for the mid-major level, with very good potential for the future.
